FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: APRIL 10, 2002
CONTACT: LINDA MACIAS/PAUL TODD (202) 225-6161

Baca testifies on critical Inland Empire infrastructure needs

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Representative Joe Baca (D-Rialto) testified today before the House of Representatives Subcommittee on Veterans Affairs/Housing and Urban Development Appropriations to request funds for important Inland Empire projects.

"The Inland Empire of Southern California is not only the most rapidly growing region in California, but also among the fastest growing areas in the nation," Baca said. "Infrastructure improvements in our urban and suburban areas are necessary for the safety and welfare of my constituents."

Congressman Baca sought $3.75 million from the subcommittee for the construction of a new fire station in the City of Rialto. The new station, constructed and operated jointly with the City of Colton fire department, would include a regional training center and a fleet maintenance facility. Baca stressed the importance of providing fire protection to the residents of south Rialto.

"This project is very important to the public safety of the people who live south of the Metrolink rail line and I-10," Baca said. "The fire department deals with more than just fires, and this new station is vital to the well being of the residents of Rialto."

Congressman Baca also requested $6 million for the City of San Bernardino to continue its Comprehensive Storm Drain Project, which the Subcommittee funded last year. The project would help to mitigate storm water flows that impede the access of emergency vehicles to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center by constructing an outflow into the Santa Ana River.

"The inability of emergency vehicles and hospital personal to access the hospital during flood events poses a serious threat to the citizens of San Bernardino," said Baca.

Baca also requested funds for other area projects including:

• Funds for the Urban Streams Project, which would help alleviate problems caused by high water tables in and around San Bernardino

• The replacement of several buildings that sit on the San Jacinto Fault at San Bernardino Valley Community College

• Improvements and repairs at the Central Park Baseball Tournament Complex in Fontana

"I will be following up with specific funding requests for these and other projects that will serve the people I represent," Baca said. "It is my duty as their elected representative to Congress to seek those federal funds that will benefit the communities in which they live."

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